Driveshaft - Rear, Three-Piece: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Pickup, 2003 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford F450 Super Duty, 2003 Ford Excursion, and 2003 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and support the vehicle. For additional information, Refer to JACKING & LIFTING -- EXCURSION & F250-F550 SUPER DUTY .
Index-mark the driveshaft at the axle flange.

Fig 1: Identifying Index-Mark Location On Driveshaft At Axle Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the driveshaft from the axle flange.
1. Remove and discard the bolts.
2. Remove and discard the U-joint retainers.
  - Using mechanics wire, support the driveshaft.
    
    Fig 2: Removing Bolts And U-Joint Retainers
    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the driveshaft from the coupling shaft.
1. Remove and discard the bolts.
2. Remove the U-joint retainers.
  - Using mechanics wire, support the driveshaft.
    
    Fig 3: Disconnecting Driveshaft From Coupling Shaft
    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the center bearing support bolts.

Fig 4: Removing Center Bearing Support Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the rear driveshaft assembly.

NOTE: Index-mark the driveshaft to transmission flange or output shaft to slip yoke.

Fig 5: Identifying Index-Mark Location On Driveshaft To Transmission Flange Or Output Shaft To Slip Yoke

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

For vehicles equipped with a circular flange, remove and discard the bolts.
Remove the center bearing support bolts.

Fig 6: Removing Center Bearing Support Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the front driveshaft.
- For vehicles equipped with a slip yoke, lower the driveshaft and slide it rearward off the transmission output shaft.
- Plug the extension housing to prevent fluid loss.
Clean grease deposits, dirt and rust from the following:
- The driveshaft yoke areas.
- All driveshaft components.
- Wipe the bearing and rubber insulator of the driveshaft center bearing. Do not immerse in solvent.
Inspect the following:
- The universal joint slip yoke boot for rips or holes. Install a new boot if necessary.
- The driveshaft center bearing support for wear or rough action. If roughness or wear is evident, install a new driveshaft center bearing support.
- The center bearing rubber insulator for evidence of hardening, cracking or deterioration. Install a new insulator if necessary.